CM Naidu Takes Strong Stand on Law and Order in Andhra Pradesh
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu declared on Friday that the state government will adopt a firm approach to address law and order issues, issuing a stern warning against groups attempting to create unrest under political pretexts. Speaking during the discussion on the motion of thanks to the governor's address in the assembly, Naidu emphasized the administration's commitment to maintaining peace and stability across Andhra Pradesh.
Tirupati Laddu Controversy and Temple Sanctity
Referring specifically to the sensitive Tirupati laddu controversy, Naidu alleged deliberate attempts to hurt the sanctity of the deity and the sentiments of devotees. He assured the assembly that the NDA government would take all necessary measures to protect the sanctity of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and all temples in the state. The Chief Minister strongly refuted allegations linking adulterated ghee supply to Heritage Foods, a company managed by his family, calling it a calculated effort by the YSRCP to tarnish reputations.
Population Management Policy Announcement
In a significant policy announcement, Naidu revealed that a comprehensive population management policy would be introduced in the next Assembly session. He stressed the urgent need to improve the replacement rate and address demographic challenges through systematic planning and implementation.
Welfare Schemes and Economic Development
Naidu highlighted that Andhra Pradesh has successfully regained governance stability through a carefully calibrated balance of welfare initiatives and development projects. He noted that this approach has helped correct institutional and fiscal damage caused by the previous administration. Despite facing financial constraints, the government continues to implement key welfare schemes including pensions, Deepam, Stree Shakti, Talliki Vandanam, and Annadata Sukhibhava.
The Chief Minister emphasized wealth creation through public-private partnership (PPP) based infrastructure development, renewable energy initiatives, and investment in futuristic technologies like quantum computing. He revealed that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is scheduled to visit the state on February 16 to explore digital health initiatives under the innovative Sanjeevani project.
Employment Generation and Investment
Naidu detailed several employment measures including the completion of Mega DSC, police recruitment drives, and enhanced stipends for trainees. The state has achieved significant progress in attracting investments, having signed 610 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹13.5 lakh crore. These proposed investments totaling ₹20 lakh crore are expected to generate approximately 23 lakh jobs across various sectors.
Power Sector and Allegations
The Chief Minister accused the previous government of burdening consumers with power sector liabilities amounting to ₹1.22 lakh crore. In contrast, he stated that the current administration has absorbed a ₹4,860 crore true-up burden and assured that there would be no tariff hike for the next three years. Naidu also alleged a ₹3,200 crore liquor scam under the previous regime, announcing that a new policy with enhanced tracking features has been implemented to prevent such irregularities.
Vision 2047 and Political Criticism
Outlining an ambitious Vision 2047, Naidu stated that the government aims to build a $2.4 trillion economy with high per capita income and improved living standards for all citizens. He criticized the opposition for disrupting the Governor's address, remarking that "people are watching" their conduct and will hold them accountable through democratic processes.
Naidu recalled how the opposition had previously attempted to implicate him in the YS Vivekananda Reddy murder case, citing sensational headlines like "Narasura Rakta Charitra" as examples of political targeting. He reiterated his administration's commitment to transparent governance and development-oriented policies that benefit all sections of society in Andhra Pradesh.
